On the Civic Center

Yes, I know, I've been off the radar for a while. Been busy trying to make the car thing work, but that is a topic for another blog. Lately there has a been a bit of a ruckus about the Civic Center and its propensity to lose money. As if this were something new. Hardly. CJ Summers did a rather extensive article last May in the Peoria Chronicle detailing the losses of the Civic Center, so there is no need to repeat it here. But the problem is not the Civic Center. How could it be, it's just a building. The problem is management and a lack of impetus to perform. The problem is SMG, Spectacor Management Group, a company founded in 1977 that manages many venues throughout the country, but can't seem to make the multimillion dollar Civic Center here in Peoria work. Could it be that this massive organization can afford to blow off the local needs as long as they continue to get their annual fees from our city fathers? Or could it be that they actually expect us to attend the events that are provided so that we can all contribute to the local economy and perhaps (God Forbid) make a profit? One thing for certain, the Civic Center expansion was ill timed. Embassy Suites in East Peoria, US Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington, and other competing venues seem to be attracting more and more of the money that was intended to come to Peoria. Why? Are they any closer to an airport than we are? No, we have an airport. Are they any easier to get to than we are? No, the 155 bypass made it as easy to get to Peoria as Bloomington from the south. So that leads me to believe that the problem is that SMG is not willing to adjust their rates to attract the acts we need to fill that arena, theater, and convention center with the events and performances that would attract those dollars to Peoria. One of the biggest draws for any arena in the area is Reba McIntire, who will be performing again this year in Bloomington. And there are many other concerts and events coming to Bloomington that should be in Peoria, IF SMG was willing to get competitive and go after them. Since the City Council has decided that we just can't afford to throw $37 million into a project that will apparently not do what we need it to, how about they keep the ball rolling and decide we can no longer afford to have SMG in charge of the Civic Center if it fails to fill it with attractions that will bring money to the economy?

Well, it has been a while,

And there are several reasons I have not posted. Mostly because my work has been occupying most of my time as late. Some other things have occurred in my personal life that have required my attention, but suffice it to say that they are private matters that are in the past now.

I'll be adding some comments later, but I do want to get one comment out. I have officially resigned from the campaign for Matt Woodmancy for Congress. Matt and I have come to an impasse in the campaign and in strategy that, after several weeks, we are unable to resolve. I still wish Matt every success and believe he will make a good candidate, but am unable to support the current direction he wishes to take his campaign.

More later.

Reflections on the Race Case that wasn't...and the aftermath...

At times I have been corrected on my occasional rantings by other bloggers, so it comes as no surprise to anyone that I have decided to publish my own comments on the events as I see them, or rather, as I have seen and thought about them.

Last week, Paul Wilkinson, in my opinion, seriously damaged his credibility by filing what can only be deemed a false report of black youths "terrorizing" the neighborhood at West Thrush and Sheridan. From all reports, his claim was so exaggerated that it bears little resemblance to the facts reported by the other neighbors. The sad fact of the matter is that C. J. Summers, usually a very careful journalist, was sucked into his fantasy (nightmare?) and repeated the story, which was then rocketed across the nation in the infamous Drudge Report. While the reporting was untrue and unsubstantiated, it did accomplish several things.

First, it brought a plethora of attention to an otherwise local blog that now stands to make substantial funds from advertising dollars, should C. J. choose to pursue it (and in this economy, who wouldn't?). Second, it took everyone's attention off of several national issues, such as Medicare, the Economy, and some of President Obama's more lucid statements (as well as a few not so lucid statements). Last, it set race relations back a few months...or years.

Opinion writing is just that. Opinions. When I write this blog about council meetings or other events, I try to be accurate about what has gone on before I start spouting my personal opinion. I believe that to be responsible. If I misquote or miss a fact, I say so and apologize, so as not to unfairly criticize or be just downright rude.

But I have never crossed the "Sky is falling" line. Chicken Little will never be my sole source for any information I present here.

Too bad others don't feel the same way.

I'm back...and so is the council.....

First the good news....Tonight the city council of Peoria honored a group of students who will represent our fair city in Germany later this year. The group, a percussion group called Pulses of Hope, a branch of the ELITE Program, is one more offshoot of the well known youth advocate, Carl Cannon. Carl's many contributions to our community could only be described as impressive, and it is with great respect and pride that I can say I know the man, and admire his enthusiasm and passion for the children of our community. We are a better place for his efforts, and we are truly blessed to have him. Well done to the young men and women of Pulses of Hope, and well done, Mr. Cannon.

And now, the bad news. Once again bureaucracy wins out over common sense and fiscal responsibility.

In the form of Item G on the consent agenda, the awarding of the Exclusive Contract to Barracks and Chefs Catering for catering services to the great Peoria Money pit known as the Gateway Building. Surprisingly, it was Councilperson Van Auken who moved to remove this from the consent agenda and objected to the awarding of only two services, saying the original plan was to have four services instead. Guess one of her campaign contributors didn't get the bid. Anyway, the ensuing discussion brought out some interesting points, with Sandberg interjecting that the Gateway building was, indeed, a money pit that has failed to show a profit. He insisted that this latest move was simply doing the same thing and expecting different results (the definition of insanity). Gary favors an open bid process, which was also supported by Gulley, and Beth Akeson suggested that the building simply be rented to groups who would then provide or arrange for their own catering. There were several other suggestions, but when it came down to it, the measure passed with only one nay vote, Sandberg. Even the fiscal conservative Akeson went along with the ludicrous proposal, although the word Exclusive was removed from the proposal, leaving the door open for other caterers to get the contract as well. Frankly, Beth, I would have had more respect for you if you had stuck to your suggestion and voted no with Sandberg.

The remainder of the items went fairly smooth until item 8 came up, the improvement of West Ridge Road with ornamental street lamps. Four of the residents were granted time on the microphone (Tom Stafford, Cathy Kiley, Kevin Sibley, and a fourth speaker, I did not catch their name), and all four were opposed to the idea on the grounds of financial hardship (the city will assess the property owners for a portion of the improvements). A petition was cited which was circulated 4 years ago for the approval of this project, and it was pointed out that many of those residents no longer live in that area or on that street. Apparently 64 signatures were on that petition, and there has been a 60% turnover in the residents of the area since that time. There has to be some sort of obligation being met somewhere, since Councilman Riggenbach, in his fair and unbiased manner, pointed out that he had received 17 calls in favor of the motion and only 3 opposed. Interesting that, when the floor was given to the public, none of those in favor were there to speak. Long story short, the motion passed, with only Gulley objecting. You heard me, Gulley, not Sandberg. Had to be some heavy politicking somewhere.

Oh yeah, almost forgot. Barbara Van Auken wins the "WTF" award tonight for her support of the ludicrous idea to make the section of Loucks Avenue that runs from Sheridan to McClure a two way street to "enhance business accessibility". Really? Barbara, there aren't any businesses between Sheridan and McClure on Loucks. The neighborhood on those blocks are all residential. Furthermore, if you did turn the street two way, when you reached the end of Loucks, you would have to turn right. There are no provisions for creating a left turn lane onto McClure, so you would be turning back into the same area you were attempting to leave. I have absolutely no idea why anyone in their right mind would even think of such an idea. I travel that route daily, since I live off McClure on the East Bluff, and can tell you for a fact that this would do nothing to improve traffic, enhance business, or do anything else that might look like an improvement. One more way to waste taxpayer dollars, I guess.

Noticed also that Councilman Weaver ended up abstaining on several issues due to owning property in the affected areas. Chuck, is there any area of town where you don't own property?

Had to leave at 8 pm, so I didn't catch the rest of the show. I'll check C.J.'s remarks to see what I missed.

Memorial Day Service at the Gateway Building

There was a sizable crowd gathered this morning at the Gateway Building on the riverfront to take part in the annual Memorial Day Program. Dr. Vroman and the Peoria Municipal Band gave us an excellent selection of music to set the mood, and Lee Wenger honored us with a few selections as well. The crowd was made up of all ages and services, from honored World War II and Korea and Vietnam Veterans to those of Iraq, Afghanistan, and other peacekeeping actions. Men and women, husbands and wives and families, all gathered on a beautiful spring day to honor the memory of those who have given their lives in defense of this nation.

No one was forgotten in the ceremony. From the memorial for those who died in the Civil War, to the veterans of World Wars I & II, to Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and all the others, including the War on Terrorism, the speakers made plain the fact that, while they were veterans, that they were here not to receive the accolades they so richly deserve for their service, but to honor the memory of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of freedom.

Bugler Ronald Allgaier opened the official ceremonies with Assembly, a song heard many times in our lives by those who served. Rev. Curtis Rowden of the EP Community Church of God gave us our invocation. Robert Derrick, the President of the Peoria Memorial Association, welcomed the crowd, and then turned the ceremony over to Dr. Vroman and the Band to help honor the men and women in the audience who served. The patriotic arrangement included all five service songs (hope you didn't forget the Coast Guard) and members of the audience were asked to stand when their branch song was played. Needless to say, there were a lot of people standing, saluting, and applauding the veterans who stood.

A particularly sober moment came when Maria Kieser, a student from Brimfield High School, presented her essay, "Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility to Preserve It." This essay, sponsored by the Peoria chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, was uplifting and should put to rest the sometimes expressed sentiment that the next generation has no idea what the principles of this nation are. Her words drew a grand round of applause from the audience, and their effect was plain on the faces of the crowd.

The Gold Star Mothers, Daughters, and Sisters were introduced next, followed by other veterans on the dais, including Mayor Jim Ardis, Councilman Dan Irving and Councilman Eric Turner, and of course, the guest speaker, Lt. Col. Jon Bateman, US Army Reserve. Col. Bateman's speech was filled with references to Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, and again brought a somber and prideful feeling to the audience.

Next came the presentations of the wreaths, one wreath for each conflict or war where Americans have lost their lives.

As you can see on the right side of the photo, a total of eight wreaths were laid. Incidentally, the young men and women of the Pimetoui chapter of the US Navy Sea Cadets performed their duties with precision and honor. Their demeanor and obvious pride in serving was an inspiration to all Peorians.

Next the Peoria Band and Lee Wenger invited the audience to join in a rousing version of "God Bless America", and the American Legion Post #2 Rifle Squad, led by Sgt. Richard D. Hazen, fired the traditional 21 gun salute. The ceremony was concluded by the somber tones of Taps presented by Mr. Allgaier.

I guess there are times when opinions are expected in a blog, but this isn't one of them. I will simply say that today I am reminded once again of why I am proud to have served, proud of the men and women I have served with, and proud to be an American.

Matthew Woodmancy on Social Security @ Youtube

Thought you might appreciate the link.

Guest Editorial - Matthew A. Woodmancy on Civil Unions

Thirty-four years ago, a man named Harvey Milk was elected to serve the people of San Francisco. Thirty-three years ago, he was assassinated along with the Mayor of San Francisco. He was not assassinated for his politics, nor for his fervor, or even because he was about to pass some outrageous law.He was assassinated for being gay.
 
His final campaign manager wrote this about him “"What set Harvey apart from you or me was that he was a visionary. He imagined a righteous world inside his head and then he set about to create it for real, for all of us." Sadly, when he was cut down by an assassin’s bullet the torch he cared for all of us fell with him. I stand before you today, and I have imagined that same just and righteous world, I have picked up our fallen leaders torch, and I am setting out to make Harvey Milk’s dream a reality for all of us.
 
On January 31st, Governor Quinn signed a bill into law, which made civil unions possible. This month, while testifying before Congress, representatives of the United States Navy said the Navy will allow same-sex couples to wed in ceremonies on its bases officiated by Navy chaplains after the "Don’t ask don’t tell" policy is officially repealed, in spite of the “Defense of Marriage Act.
 
These are truly historic decisions, these were brave decisions made by brave men and women who acted in the best interests of all Americans, I am waiting for the United States Congress to act that way, and I am waiting for the President of the United States to act that way.
 
We cannot accept this bill as a total victory. We cannot accept anything short of equal rights, if we do; we deny ourselves the right to be acknowledged as full equals in the eyes of the law, the community, the military, the nation and indeed the world. The infamous Defense of Marriage Act is still on the books. The language is clear and offensive to all Americans who envision a nation where all citizens are truly free.
 
We cannot accept a society where one group of people is forced to live outside the boundaries of that society. We cannot accept a society that will not acknowledge the right of people to love who they choose, and to receive all the benefits accorded the same unions between heterosexual couples. We cannot accept this bill, as monumental as it is, as the end of the war for equality for all people, all citizens of the United States of America.
 
President Obama has stated he will not fund the Defense of Marriage Act, nor will he support any law that openly discriminates against any American. I say that is not enough. I say the Defense of Marriage Act must be repealed, that the government of the United States must stand for freedom of all Americans.
 
I say we must stand up and be counted, and let our government know it is time to end the prejudice and hate. In order for that to happen, we need a voice that will be heard on the Floor for of the House in the United Sates Congress, a voice that will not falter, a voice that will speak loudly and clearly in demanding the rights of all Americans be upheld."
 
As your representative in the United States Congress, my goal will be to repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act, and to create legislation that prevents any state from inhibiting the rights of its citizens to love who we will, to live, as we will fully secure in the knowledge that we are free from harm and bias.